9 Best Things to Do After Dinner in the English Riviera

Paignton Pier is the English Riviera’s liveliest jetty and a top spot to visit any time of day. The award-winning attraction stretches 240 meters from the shorefront to afford breathtaking views of the twinkling Tor Bay. Entry is free, and there’s an array of indoor arcades to seek shelter should it rain.

The historic pier is home to a slew of family-friendly entertainment options, from fairground rides to ten-pin bowling and video game arcades. If you’re still feeling peckish, you’ll find a modest selection of food and beverage vendors, including the much-loved Pier Café.

The Torquay Fish & Chips Sunset Cruise lets you combine your evening entertainment and dinner into 1 leisurely nautical adventure. Passengers get to soak up the splendid scenery of the English Riviera coastline while devouring a delicious fish and chips meal (or a vegetarian halloumi option). A complimentary adult beverage ot soda comes included in the deal.

Throughout the summer, the 2-hour cruise departs from Torquay, Paignton and Brixham most evenings. Reserve your spot in advance during peak periods as the cruise often books out.

The Torquay Marina is the epicenter of the city’s hedonistic party scene. Home to a dazzling array of bustling bars and clubs, the lively strip hums with revelers during the busy summer months. Embark on an impromptu bar crawl or choose a raucous club to dance away until dawn.

Wondering where to go? Try Soho for technicoloured cocktails in a sci-fi neon-lit locale. Alternately, Offshore Bar offers a more refined, laidback vibe with acoustic tunes and waterfront views. Clubbers mustn’t miss Foundry for its packed dancefloor and epic laser shows.

The 1,500-seat Princess Theater is a famous theater hall in the English Riviera. Located right by the water’s edge in the Torquay Marina, it’s a popular spot for locals and vacationers alike. The theater draws its biggest crowds during its traditional summer season. Expect an eclectic blend of family-friendly variety shows plus West End classics like Grease and Chicago.

But it’s not just about theater. The Princess Theater also hosts other performing arts like stand-up comedy and live music—gigs are rostered on throughout the year. Well-priced tickets can be purchased online, and there’s an onsite resto-bar for a pre-performance tipple.

Harbor Light is a great bet for a quiet pint in the quaint Riviera town of Paignton. Unlike neighboring Torquay, the nightlife scene in Paignton is decidedly lowkey, and this charming harbourfront venue encapsulates that vibe. Traditional wood-frame interiors and cozy English-style décor make it a prime place to imbibe.

Sit outside on the waterfront patio to watch the sunset with a drink in hand. During the cooler months, the team constructs a lovely log fire to ensure everyone stays warm. A solid selection of cocktails, ales, and wine helps the time fly by.

The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail is a seasonal LED display that lights up Torquay for the festive season. Brand new in 2022, the twinkling trail runs from Torre Abbey to the seafront and Fleet Street to the town center. Bright shimmering lights and festive sound bites accompany walkers for the entire 1.5-mile route.

The free public attraction illuminates the area from late November to early January. Other Torbay Christmas-themed light shows include the Brixham Lanterns, the Paignton Christmas Train of Lights, and Lights and ‘Luminations.

The Babbacombe Theater is a popular performing arts center in the township of the same name. The small community theater underwent a comprehensive renovation to revitalize its aging interiors. Comfortable seating and a decent sound and lighting system help bring eclectic performances to life.

Since opening in 1986, the venue has attracted a loyal contingent of theatre-goers from around Britain and beyond. Genres span drama to comedy and musical concerts—there’s something for every taste. If you happen to visit in the festive season, don’t miss the I Love Christmas extravaganza.

Lucky 7 Club is a little-known yet charming performing arts venue in the heart of Paignton. The club hosts various vintage genres, from comedy to cabaret and burlesque. Other ad-hoc events include gin-tasting nights, roots music gigs, and electro-swing dance parties.

Tucked away on a nondescript residential street, this secretive speakeasy only accepts guests by prior reservation. Inquire on its official website to find out what’s on and secure your seat. Vibrant décor, lively performances, and an inclusive atmosphere make for a fun night out.

Foundry is a heaving late-night club in the Torquay Marina, which is one of the city’s most hectic party districts. Since opening in 2017, the pulsating 1,000-person venue has become a highlight of the English Riviera party scene. Organizes work alongside big-name promoters to lure international names and under-appreciated local acts.

While EDM is the most prevalent genre, its rotating roster of events spans everything from rock to roots and reggae. Awesome acoustics, state-of-the-art lighting, and a wild, carefree vibe guarantee a good time. Next door, The Attic is all about underground electro beats from talented Southwest DJs.